Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the Bharat Gaurav deluxe tourist train on September 20, 2024, at Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station in New Delhi. The train sets off on a 10-day cultural and religious journey, carrying 110 enthusiastic tourists.
Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Train Embarks On 10-Day Cultural Expedition
Union Minister for Railways, @AshwiniVaishnaw flags off the “Bharat Nepal Maitri Yatra” – Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train from Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station.#BharatGauravTrain pic.twitter.com/3dPF0iiXMg
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 20, 2024
The Bharat Gaurav train, themed “Bharat Nepal Maitri Yatra,” will visit several significant destinations in India and Nepal. This includes the revered cities of Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Sitamarhi, followed by a road tour to Janakpur and a flight to Kathmandu. Each location holds deep spiritual importance, enhancing the cultural experience of the journey.
Launched in 2021-22 by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the Bharat Gaurav scheme aims to provide theme-based travel packages. So far, Indian Railways has organised 291 tours focusing on various religious and cultural themes, including those inspired by the Ramayana, Buddhism, and Jainism.
During the flag-off ceremony, Vaishnaw highlighted the success of these tours in immersing travellers in India’s rich culture. He interacted with passengers, discovering that one couple was on their 15th tour together. Vaishnaw commended the IRCTC for seamlessly integrating travel components, such as hotel stays and visits to key sites.
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The Train’s Amenities
Experience the spiritual journey with ‘Bharat-Nepal Maitri Yatra’ #BharatGaurav Tourist train, departed today from Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/dx3lQC0uSB
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) September 20, 2024
Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar discussed the train’s amenities, which include first, second, and third AC accommodations, two fine-dining restaurants, a modern kitchen, shower cubicles, and foot massagers. These features enhance the comfort of the passengers, making the journey more enjoyable.
The Bharat Gaurav deluxe tourist train will take travellers to a variety of spiritual sites across India. In Ayodhya, guests will visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, and Ram ki Paidi (Sarayu ghat). The journey continues to Varanasi, where sightseeing includes the Ganga Aarti, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, and Sankat Mochan Temple. Finally, in Sitamarhi, travellers will explore the Janaki Temple and Punaura Dham, immersing themselves in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of these significant locations.
Upon entering Nepal, tourists will discover the rich heritage of Janakpur, with visits to Janaki Temple, Ram Sita Vivah Mandap, Dhanushdham, and Parashuram Kund. In Kathmandu, the itinerary includes Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, and Budhanilkantha (the sleeping Lord Vishnu). The journey also covers Bindyabasini Temple, Devi’s Falls, and Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave in Pokhara.
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The Bharat-Nepal Yatra aims to bolster cultural ties between India and Nepal. It encourages people-to-people connections, fostering understanding and appreciation between the two nations. By exploring shared spiritual heritage, the journey enhances the bond that transcends borders.
Cover Image Courtesy:@airnewsalerts/X (Formerly, Twitter)
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